Oxygen Sensor Torque Value

[JohnGunn]

My first post here.

My 1990 Festiva L, five speed, 176K, Surf Blue, is due for its biennial California SMOG inspection. In preparation, I plan to replace the spark plugs and the oxygen sensor. The instructions which came with the Bosch oxygen sensor, part #11027, says it should be torqued to between 37-44 ft. lb.. But that seems like a lot to me in view of the fact that spark plugs are torqued to between 10 and 17 ft. lb. according to my Ford Shop Manual. It has a flat washer, like that on a spark plug, and I would think it needed a similar torque value. It doesn't have to hold anything but itself in place, and I would think the torque value need only be sufficient to seal the the connection. I can't believe the pressures in the exhaust manifold are greater than those in the cylinders.
More to the point, does anyone know the official Ford torque specification for this part?

I love this car and people who do.

John

[hattie]

Oxygen sensor

Was that inch pounds, or Foot pounds? That does seem like a lot.

[mattswabb]

No value in my shop value. I just give them a good snug.

[jglutz]

^^^ yeah...hao about it. Most O2 sensor socket are clevised out for the cable...I would be surprised if they could handle that musch torque. Always be sure to clean the female threads with a small wire brush or the like before installing the new device. Get all of the loose stuff out. A liitle anti sieze is advantageous but extreme caution must be used not to contaminate the sensor.

[FB71]

Ford does not specify a torque value for the O2 sensor. but around 20ft/lb should be about right. Of course, if your like me, you apply German torque... Guttentite!!